FINAL USD GAME-FIXING DEFENDANT SENTENCED

Eight people were convicted in conspiracy that involved pot distribution, bookmaking

San Diego 
Richard Garmo became the eighth and final defendant in the University of San Diego game-fixing case to be sentenced, receiving 24 months in federal prison Thursday from U.S. District Judge Anthony Battaglia.

Garmo, 43, who manages a convenience store in Pacific Beach, was considered one of three ringleaders in a conspiracy that involved marijuana distribution, illegal bookmaking and a college basketball game-fixing scheme. Prosecutors had sought a 30-month prison sentence.

The other two “primary” defendants — Steve Goria and Paul Thweni — each received 2½ years in prison. Goria was arrested in 2011 and recently released from a halfway house. Thweni is scheduled to begin serving his sentence Friday.

Ten people were indicted two years ago for various roles in the scheme. Eight pleaded guilty and have been sentenced, including former USD player Brandon Johnson to six months and former USD assistant coach T.J. Brown to 12 months. Charges against two others, Lilian Goria and Brandon Dowdy, were dismissed last week.

Garmo’s attorney, Gerard Wasson, had recommended a sentence of up to 18 months, arguing that his client wasn’t part of the conspiracy’s initial formation and didn’t have an active leadership role. In a memorandum filed with the court, Wasson said Garmo had great financial pressures that led him to become increasingly involved with gambling in a misguided attempt to ease the burden.